25 years later: Looking back at how 9/11 reshaped the aviation industry

It was a day that changed America.The fallout from "9/11" reverberated across the nation, affecting everything from politics and foreign affairs to the economy.But few things changed more for Americans that the way we fly. Even 25 years since 9/11, the day's impact on aviation has been a lasting one.As the attacks unfolded, air traffic controllers and airline personnel scrambled to figure out what was happening, which ultimately culminated in the first (and to this date, only) complete closure of U.S. airspace.But once planes took the air again, the passenger experience on the ground rapidly evolved.An arrival board shows cancellations at Los Angeles on Sept. 11, 2001. GERARD BURKHART/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGESMajor security overhaulIn the weeks and months that followed 9/11, new security protocols were rolled out at airports nationwide. Gate areas were restricted to ticketed passengers only. No more welcoming loved ones at the gate.As those security perimeters pushed out, a federalized workforce – the Transportation Security Administration – was created to manage secure spaces at U.S. airports and other important travel nodes. This was a major shift from the private companies tasked wit...